Every Friday, you know what goes down! Brew Bistro Fashion Friday; A platform supporting African artists. Hope you have a plan to head over there this Friday there is an amazing show planned out!
So two weeks ago, the show featured Roma Designs Africa by Robert Mandela. It’s always delightful and a pleasure meeting young men in fashion.
I had a chance to talk to Mandela during the show and what a humble gentleman! He tells me he gets his inspiration from everywhere. His creativity is always at work.
Roma Designs is a Kenyan brand based in pipeline, Embakasi; made by Kenya, founded by Nelson Mandela a young man born and raised in Kibera slums. The brand currently has 2 shops in Pipeline.
What kind of designs do you make?
All kinds of designs that cater to everyone including kids; targeting all shapes and sizes.
How and when did you start Roma Designs Africa
I started in 2013. I am a trained designer. I had a dream; I struggled so hard to achieve my fashion dream. I used to draw sketches and take to tailors to make the outfits for me. Now I sketch, stich and design all master pieces, crafts and bespoke.
What shortcomings do you deal with in the industry?
Many people think designed local stuffs are expensive. Clothes from China are really taking up our market. It feels like being robbed.
So are locally made designs expensive?
Not at all, actually they are affordable if you consider the quality, the creativity and the uniqueness that goes into it. It is just a misconception.
What sets your designs apart from the rest?
We can fuse any fabric to make a design!
Do you have any favorite fabrics that you like to work with?
Denim, jersey, I like Sutting. One thing about me is that you can be looking at a pair of bed sheets, but am seeing a beautiful design that can be made from that sheet.
What does a platform like this mean to you and which other platforms have you showcased in?
These kinds of runway shows have created for me a wider platform. I have showcased in Fashion Torch Africa, Nairobi Fashion Week, Ffek Fashion Show, JW Show to name a few. I was second runners up in JW show.
Which show would you like to take part in again?
The JW show! It was a great platform that really gave me a boost.
Any plans?
I am trying to set a ready-made shop that targets classy and unique people.
Check out Roma designs for the show.
And the models decided to show their moves
of course, the man of the night (Robert Mandela) had to show the ladies how it is done.
The people who make it happen; center is Jim Karadimas, the event manager
Get in touch with Roma Designs:
Robert Mandela – +254 704 509 117
Venue: Brew Bistro
I love what you have done. That to me proves you truly love African creativity and the great support you offer. Thanks
Thank you so much Peter